Joseph L. DREXLER

News Death Notice

DREXLER, Joseph L. died peacefully, in his own home, on December 24, 2013, with his loving granddaughter Katy at his side. Despite his long struggle with lung disease, Joe remained active and independent to the end of his 83 years. Born in Pittsburgh, PA, he was a friend to all he met, with a sharp wit and ready chuckle. An avid fisherman, he loved teaching children how to fish. On bad days, without anyone seeing, he'd pass the same unlucky blue gill from pole to pole so each child had the thrill of a catch. As with all fishermen though, his best stories were about the ones that got away. Joe was a jack of all trades: if our mother taught us to fly, our dad always made sure we landed safely. Between the two of them, all things were possible. He was a self-taught man who built his home with his own hands, restored antiques, rebuilt player pianos, and crafted stained glass. We fought over the last piece of his from-scratch pound cake. Joe learned golf in old age, turning heads when he'd arrive with oxygen tank and tubing which he threw over his shoulder before each swing; he never recognized a handicap! In a time when such things were still possible, he worked his way from a blue collar to white collar job which required moving his family to Toledo. Joe was a master of the honey-do list and a tireless supporter of his wife and children whom he chauffeured without complaint. After retirement and the death of Mary, his wife of 40 years, Joe spent time in Florida and traveled the US in his RV. He spent his last years in Springfield teaching Mahjong, playing bridge, euchre and cribbage, and winning more than his share of bingo. He is survived by daughters Mary Jo Groves (Rob Baker) Springfield, Ohio; Joyce (Kevin) Shaw Cleveland; grandchildren Wes (Shannon) Groves, Katy Groves (Rodger Kelley), Trevor Shaw, Jessica Shaw and great grandchild, Makenzie. A private service is planned at a later date. We would like to thank hospice for their exemplary care, giving Joe the means and support to extend his life more than a year beyond expectation. Memorials in Joe's name may be donated to Community-Mercy Hospice at www.community-mercy.org/hospice or a charity of your choice. Joe will be greatly missed by all who knew him. You may express condolences to the family at www.littletonandrue.com